Issa Spatrisano is the Director of Programs at Rasmuson Foundation. She first joined the Foundation in July 2025 as a program officer, strategy. Originally from Michigan, she moved to Alaska in 2010 planning to stay just a couple of years, but ended up falling in love with the state and building a long-term career serving refugee and immigrant communities. Most recently, she served as the Alaska state refugee coordinator at Catholic Social Services. Through her work in teaching and resettlement, she has had the privilege of assisting newcomers from more than 80 countries.

Issa holds a bachelor’s degree in history and political science from Western Michigan University in Kalamazoo, Michigan, and a master’s degree in teaching and learning from the University of Alaska Anchorage. In 2024, she was named one of the Alaska Journal of Commerce’s Top 40 Under 40. She has served on the boards of Identity Inc. and Story Works.

Outside of work, Issa enjoys spending time with her wife and three kids, exploring the outdoors and making the most of Alaska’s summer sun to grow carrots.